Upon returning from a trip to Assisi, Francis developed the firm intention of becoming a hermit, his only home a cave. His life plan was to pursue a path of spiritual asceticism, consisting of prayer, fasting, and penance. Over time, the area where the Sanctuary of Paola now stands began to attract numerous pilgrims, seeking physical and spiritual healing through his intercession. Francis's ascetic rigor also attracted young men who wanted to live like him, and thus the Order of Minims began to take shape.
The reputation for sanctity of Francis and his hermits was spreading like wildfire, so much so that many urban centers requested a convent run by Minims in their cities.
Francis, while maintaining his commitment to the eremitic life, traveled from Paola to Paterno in the guise of Founder. He was about 56 years old when, accompanied by Paolo Rendace—who would become a key figure in the Order's history—Francis arrived in the small community of Serre Cosentine. He was at the height of his spiritual maturity and with great determination he dedicated himself personally to the construction of the Church.